Fire Alarm System – Summary Table (SBC 801-CR-18 Section 907)

Section Topic Key Requirements Reference

907.1 General Applies to new and existing buildings. Systems must follow SBC 201 & NFPA 72. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.1

Must include: floor plans, device locations, candela ratings, audibility levels, wiring calcs, battery calcs,
907.1.2 Shop Drawings SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.1.2
power supply, model datasheets.

907.2 New Buildings Fire alarm required by occupancy type (see below table) with manual pull stations unless exempt. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.2

- ≤1500 mm from exits

- Red in color

907.4.2 Manual Pull Stations - Height 1000–1200 mm SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.4.2

- Travel distance ≤60 m (if no sprinklers)

- Must be visible and unobstructed

907.4.3 Automatic Detection Smoke detectors required unless ambient conditions require heat detectors. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.4.3

Alarms triggered by detectors, sprinklers, or manual pull stations. Must be audible and/or visible as
907.5 Occupant Notification SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.5
required.

907.5.2.1 Audible Notification Must be ≥15 dB above ambient noise (or ≥5 dB above max ambient lasting ≥60 sec). Max 110 dB. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.5.2.1
 Required in public/common use areas, R-1/I-1 units, and for hearing-impaired. Must comply with ICC
907.5.2.3 Visible Notification SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.5.2.3
A117.1.

907.6 Installation & Monitoring System must follow NFPA 70 & 72. Must be zoned (≤2100 m²/zone) and monitored by supervising station. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.6

907.6.4.2 High-Rise Zoning Each floor must have separate zones for: smoke detectors, sprinklers, manual alarms, etc. SBC 801-CR-18 Sec. 907.6.4.2
 Occupancy Groups in SBC 801 (Fire Alarm Requirements)

Group Use Type Fire Alarm Requirements Summary

Required if

Group A Assembly (theaters, halls, mosques) → occupant load ≥300

→ Voice alarm required if load ≥1000

Required if:

→ Occupant load ≥500 total

Group B Business (offices, banks)

→ >100 above/below exit discharge

→ Contains ambulatory care

Group E Educational (schools) Mandatory with emergency voice alarm system

Required if:

→ 2+ stories AND
Group F Factory/Industrial

→ Load ≥500 above/below exit discharge

 →Fire alarm and automa c detec on required

Group H High Hazard (chemical plants, labs)

→Smoke detec on required for toxic materials

→Complex alarm requirements

Institutional (hospitals, jails, care

Group I-1, I-2, I-3
centers)
→Includes smoke detec on in corridors, sleeping units, etc.

Required if:

→ Total load ≥500

Mercantile (malls, shops,
Group M
supermarkets)

→ >100 above/below exit discharge

Required if:

→Fire alarm than 2 stories

Group R-1 Residential (hotels, motels)

→Smoke alarms in corridors & sleeping units

 Required if:

→ 3+ stories
Group R-2 Apartments, dormitories
→ >1 story below exit level

→ >16 units

Group R-3 Single-family homes, small B&Bs Usually smoke alarms only (not full alarm systems)

Group R-4 Assisted living facilities Similar to R-1 & I-1: alarm system + smoke detection required

Must include:

→ Voice alarm system

Any building >23 m in height
High-Rise
(typically 7+ stories) → Smoke detec on

→ Firefighter communica on system

‫أﺣﻣد ﻋﯾﺳﻰ‬/ ‫ﻣﮭﻧدس‬

 Fire Protection Systems

1. Where portable fire extinguishers subject to include, but not be limited to, all of the following
malicious use or damage are provided with a where applicable to the system being installed:
means of ready access.
1. A floor plan that indicates the use of all rooms.
2. In Group I-3 occupancies and in mental health
2. Locations of alarm-initiating devices.
areas in Group I-2 occupancies, access to
portable fire extinguishers shall be permitted 3. Locations of alarm notification appliances,
to be locked or to be located in staff locations including candela ratings for visible alarm
provided the staff has keys. notification appliances.
906.9 Extinguisher installation. The installation 4. Design minimum audibility level for
of portable fire extinguishers shall be in occupant notification.
accordance with Sections 906.9.1 through 5. Location of fire alarm control unit,
906.9.3. transponders and notification power supplies.
906.9.1 Extinguishers weighing 18 kg or less. 6. Annunciators.
Portable fire extinguishers having a gross weight
not exceeding 18 kg shall be installed so that their 7. Power connection.
tops are not more than 1500 mm above the floor. 8. Battery calculations.
906.9.2 Extinguishers weighing mor e than 18 kg 9. Conductor type and sizes.
. Hand-held portable fire extinguishers having a
gross weight exceeding 18 kg shall be installed so 10. Voltage drop calculations.
that their tops are not more than 1100 mm above the 11. Manufacturers’ data sheets indicating model
floor. numbers and listing information for
906.9.3 Floor clear ance. The clearance between equipment, devices and materials.
the floor and the bottom of installed hand-held 12. Details of ceiling height and construction.
portable fire extinguishers shall be not less than 100
mm. 13. The interface of fire safety control functions.
906.10 Wheeled units. Wheeled fire extinguishers 14. Classification of the supervising station.
shall be conspicuously located in a designated 907.1.3 Equipment. Systems and components
location. shall be listed and approved for the purpose for
which they are installed.

SECTION 907 FIRE ALARM AND 907.2 Where required—new buildings and
DETECTION SYSTEMS structures. An approved fire alarm system
installed in accordance with the provisions of this
907.1 General. This section covers the code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new
application, installation, performance and buildings and structures in accordance with
maintenance of fire alarm systems and their Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 and provide
components in new and existing buildings and occupant notification in accordance with Section
structures. The requirements of Section 907.2 are 907.5, unless other requirements are provided by
applicable to new buildings and structures. The another section of this code.
requirements of Section 907.9 are applicable to
existing buildings and structures. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm box shall be
provided in an approved location to initiate a fire
907.1.1 Constr uction documents. Construction alarm signal for fire alarm systems employing
documents for fire alarm systems shall be of automatic fire detectors or waterflow detection
sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and devices. Where other sections of this code allow
extent of the work proposed and show in detail that elimination of fire alarm boxes due to sprinklers, a
it will conform to the provisions of this code, the single fire alarm box shall be installed.
SBC 201 and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and
regulations, as determined by the fire code official. Exceptions:

907.1.2 Fire alar m shop dr awings. Shop drawings 1. The manual fire alarm box is not required for
for fire alarm systems shall be submitted for review fire alarm systems dedicated to elevator
and approval prior to system installation, and shall recall control and supervisory service.

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2. The manual fire alarm box is not required for 2. The Group B occupant load is more than 100
Group R-2 occupancies unless required by persons above or below the lowest level of
the fire code official to provide a means for exit discharge.
fire watch personnel to initiate an alarm
3. The fire area contains an ambulatory care
during a sprinkler system impairment event.
facility.
Where provided, the manual fire alarm box
shall not be located in an area that is Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not
accessible to the public. required where the building is equipped throughout
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in
907.2.1 Gr oup A. A manual fire alarm system that
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant
activates the occupant notification system in
notification appliances will activate throughout the
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
Group A occupancies where the occupant load due
to the assembly occupancy is 300 or more. Group A 907.2.2.1 Ambulatory care facilities. Fire
occupancies not separated from one another in areas containing ambulatory care facilities shall be
accordance with Section 707.3.10 of the SBC 201 provided with an electronically supervised
shall be considered as a single occupancy for the automatic smoke detection system installed within
purposes of applying this section. Portions of Group the ambulatory care facility and in public use areas
E occupancies occupied for assembly purposes outside of tenant spaces, including public corridors
shall be provided with a fire alarm system as and elevator lobbies.
required for the Group E occupancy. Exception: Buildings equipped throughout with an
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not automatic sprinkler system in accordance with
required where the building is equipped throughout Section 903.3.1.1 provided the occupant
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in notification appliances will activate throughout the
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
notification appliances will activate throughout the 907.2.3 Gr oup E. A manual fire alarm system that
notification zones upon sprinkler water flow. initiates the occupant notification signal utilizing an
907.2.1.1 System initiation in Group A emergency voice/ alarm communication system
occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or meeting the requirements of Section 907.5.2.2 and
more. Activation of the fire alarm in Group A installed in accordance with Section 907.6 shall
occupancies with an occupant load of 1,000 or be installed in Group E occupancies. When
more shall initiate a signal using an emergency automatic sprinkler systems or smoke detectors are
voice/alarm communications system in accordance installed, such systems or detectors shall be
with Section 907.5.2.2. connected to the building fire alarm system.
Exception: Where approved, the prerecorded Exceptions:
announcement is allowed to be manually 1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in
deactivated for a period of time, not to exceed 3 Group E occupancies with an occupant load
minutes, for the sole purpose of allowing a live of 50 or less.
voice announcement from an approved, constantly
attended location. 2. Emergency voice/alarm communication
systems meeting the requirements of Section
907.2.1.2 Emergency voice/alarm 907.5.2.2 and installed in accordance with
communication system captions. Stadiums, Section 907.6 shall not be required in Group
arenas and grandstands required to caption audible E occupancies with occupant loads of 100 or
public announcements shall be in accordance with less, provided that activation of the manual
Section 907.5.2.2.4. fire alarm system initiates an approved
907.2.2 Gr oup B. A manual fire alarm system shall occupant notification signal in accordance
be installed in Group B occupancies where one of with Section 907.5.
the following conditions exists: 3. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required in
1. The combined Group B occupant load of all Group E occupancies where all of the
floors is 500 or more. following apply:
3.1. Interior corridors are protected by
smoke detectors.

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3.2. Auditoriums, cafeterias, gymnasiums detection system that activates the occupant
and similar areas are protected by heat notification system in accordance with Section
detectors or other approved detection 907.5 shall be provided in accordance with Sections
devices. 907.2.6.1, 907.2.6.2 and 907.2.6.3.3.
3.3. Shops and laboratories involving Exceptions:
dusts or vapors are protected by heat
1. Manual fire alarm boxes in sleeping units of
detectors or other approved detection
Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies shall not be
devices.
required at exits if located at all care
4. Manual fire alarm boxes shall not be required providers’ control stations or other
in Group E occupancies where all of the constantly attended staff locations, provided
following apply: such stations are visible and continuously
accessible and that the distances of travel
4.1. The building is equipped throughout
required in Section 907.4.2.1 are not
with an approved automatic sprinkler
exceeded.
system installed in accordance with
Section 903.3.1.1. 2. Occupant notification systems are not
required to be activated where private mode
4.2. The emergency voice/alarm
signaling installed in accordance with NFPA
communication system will activate on
72 is approved by the fire code official and
sprinkler water flow.
staff evacuation responsibilities are included
4.3. Manual activation is provided from a in the fire safety and evacuation plan required
normally occupied location. by Section 404.
907.2.4 Gr oup F. A manual fire alarm system that 907.2.6.1 Group I-1. An automatic smoke
activates the occupant notification system in detection system shall be installed in corridors,
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in waiting areas open to corridors and habitable
Group F occupancies where both of the following spaces other than sleeping units and kitchens. The
conditions exist: system shall be activated in accordance with
1. The Group F occupancy is two or more stories Section 907.5.
in height. Exceptions:
2. The Group F occupancy has a combined 1. For Group I-1 Condition 1 occupancies,
occupant load of 500 or more above or below smoke detection in habitable spaces is not
the lowest level of exit discharge. required where the facility is equipped
Exception: Manual fire alarm boxes are not throughout with an automatic sprinkler
required where the building is equipped throughout system installed in accordance with Section
with an automatic sprinkler system installed in 903.3.1.1.
accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the occupant 2. Smoke detection is not required for exterior
notification appliances will activate throughout the balconies.
notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.6.1.1 Smoke alarms. Single and
907.2.5 Gr oup H. A manual fire alarm system that multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
activates the occupant notification system in accordance with Section 907.2.11.
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
907.2.6.2 Group I-2. An automatic smoke
Group H-5 occupancies and in occupancies used for
detection system shall be installed in corridors in
the manufacture of organic coatings. An automatic
Group I-2 Condition 1 facilities and spaces
smoke detection system shall be installed for highly
permitted to be open to the corridors by Section
toxic gases, organic peroxides and oxidizers in
407.2 of the SBC 201. The system shall be activated
accordance with Chapters 60, 62 and 63,
in accordance with Section 907.4. Group I-2
respectively.
Condition 2 occupancies shall be equipped with an
907.2.6 Gr oup I. A manual fire alarm system that automatic smoke detection system as required in
activates the occupant notification system in Section 407 of the SBC 201.
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
Exceptions:
Group I occupancies. An automatic smoke

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1. Corridor smoke detection is not required in purpose, are allowed when necessary to
smoke compartments that contain sleeping prevent damage or tampering.
units where such units are provided with
2. Sleeping units in Use Conditions 2 and 3 as
smoke detectors that comply with UL 268.
described in Section 308 of the SBC 201.
Such detectors shall provide a visual display
on the corridor side of each sleeping unit and 3. Smoke detectors are not required in sleeping
shall provide an audible and visual alarm at units with four or fewer occupants in smoke
the care providers’ station attending each compartments that are equipped throughout
unit. with an automatic sprinkler system installed
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
2. Corridor smoke detection is not required in
smoke compartments that contain sleeping 907.2.7 Gr oup M. A manual fire alarm system that
units where sleeping unit doors are equipped activates the occupant notification system in
with automatic door-closing devices with accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
integral smoke detectors on the unit sides Group M occupancies where one of the following
installed in accordance with their listing, conditions exists:
provided that the integral detectors perform 1. The combined Group M occupant load of all
the required alerting function. floors is 500 or more persons.
907.2.6.3 Group I-3 occupancies. Group I- 2. The Group M occupant load is more than 100
3 occupancies shall be equipped with a manual fire persons above or below the lowest level of
alarm system and automatic smoke detection exit discharge.
system installed for alerting staff.
Exceptions:
907.2.6.3.1 System initiation. Actuation of an
automatic fire-extinguishing system, automatic 1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in
sprinkler system, a manual fire alarm box or a fire covered or open mall buildings complying
detector shall initiate an approved fire alarm signal with Section 402 of the SBC 201.
that automatically notifies staff. 2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
907.2.6.3.2 Manual fire alarm boxes. Manual where the building is equipped throughout
fire alarm boxes are not required to be located in with an automatic sprinkler system installed
accordance with Section 907.4.2 where the fire in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and the
alarm boxes are provided at staff attended locations occupant notification appliances will
having direct supervision over areas where manual automatically activate throughout the
fire alarm boxes have been omitted. notification zones upon sprinkler water flow.
907.2.6.3.2.1 Manual fire alarms boxes in 907.2.7.1 Occupant notification. During
detainee areas. Manual fire alarm boxes are times that the building is occupied, the initiation of
allowed to be locked in areas occupied by detainees, a signal from a manual fire alarm box or from a
provided that staff members are present within the waterflow switch shall not be required to activate
subject area and have keys readily available to the alarm notification appliances when an alarm
operate the manual fire alarm boxes. signal is activated at a constantly attended location
from which evacuation instructions shall be
907.2.6.3.3 Automatic smoke detection initiated over an emergency voice/alarm
system. An automatic smoke detection system shall communication system installed in accordance with
be installed throughout resident housing areas,
Section 907.5.2.2.
including sleeping units and contiguous day rooms,
group activity spaces and other common spaces 907.2.8 Gr oup R-1. Fire alarm systems and smoke
normally accessible to residents. alarms shall be installed in Group R-1 occupancies
as required in Sections 907.2.8.1 through 907.2.8.3.
Exceptions:
907.2.8.1 Manual fire alarm system. A
1. Other approved smoke detection manual fire alarm system that activates the
arrangements providing equivalent occupant notification system in accordance with
protection, including, but not limited to, Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-1
placing detectors in exhaust ducts from cells occupancies.
or behind protective guards listed for the
Exceptions:

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1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in of exit discharge of exits serving the dwelling
buildings not more than two stories in height unit or sleeping unit.
where all individual sleeping units and
3. The building contains more than 16 dwelling
contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those
units or sleeping units.
units are separated from each other and
public or common areas by not less than 1- Exceptions:
hour fire partitions and each individual 1. A fire alarm system is not required in
sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public buildings not more than two stories in height
way, egress court or yard. where all dwelling units or sleeping units and
2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required contiguous attic and crawl spaces are
throughout the building where all of the separated from each other and public or
following conditions are met: common areas by not less than 1-hour fire
partitions and each dwelling unit or sleeping
2.1. The building is equipped throughout
unit has an exit directly to a public way,
with an automatic sprinkler system
egress court or yard.
installed in accordance with Section
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. 2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required
where the building is equipped throughout
2.2. The notification appliances will
with an automatic sprinkler system installed
activate upon sprinkler water flow.
in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm 903.3.1.2 and the occupant notification
box is installed at an approved location. appliances will automatically activate
throughout the notification zones upon a
907.2.8.2 Automatic smoke detection
sprinkler water flow.
system. An automatic smoke detection system that
activates the occupant notification system in 3. A fire alarm system is not required in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed buildings that do not have interior corridors
throughout all interior corridors serving sleeping serving dwelling units and are protected by
units. an approved automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with Section
Exception: An automatic smoke detection system
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, provided that dwelling
is not required in buildings that do not have interior units either have a means of egress door opening
corridors serving sleeping units and where each directly to an exterior exit access that leads
sleeping unit has a means of egress door opening directly to the exits or are served by open-ended
directly to an exit or to an exterior exit access that corridors designed in accordance with Section
leads directly to an exit. 1027.6, Exception 3.
907.2.8.3 Smoke alarms. Single and 907.2.9.2 Smoke alarms. Single and
multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
accordance with Section 907.2.11. accordance with Section 907.2.11.
907.2.9 Gr oup R-2. Fire alarm systems and smoke 907.2.9.3 Group R-2 college and university
alarms shall be installed in Group R-2 occupancies buildings. An automatic smoke detection system
as required in Sections 907.2.9.1 and 907.2.9.3. that activates the occupant notification system in
accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
907.2.9.1 Manual fire alarm system. A
Group R-2 occupancies operated by a college or
manual fire alarm system that activates the
university for student or staff housing in all of the
occupant notification system in accordance with
following locations:
Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-2
occupancies where any of the following conditions 1. Common spaces outside of dwelling units and
apply: sleeping units.
1. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located 2. Laundry rooms, mechanical equipment rooms
three or more stories above the lowest level and storage rooms.
of exit discharge. 3. All interior corridors serving sleeping units or
2. Any dwelling unit or sleeping unit is located dwelling units.
more than one story below the highest level

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Exception: An automatic smoke detection system 907.2.10.2 Automatic smoke detection

is not required in buildings that do not have interior system. An automatic smoke detection system that
corridors serving sleeping units or dwelling units activates the occupant notification system in
and where each sleeping unit or dwelling unit either accordance with Section 907.5 shall be installed in
has a means of egress door opening directly to an corridors, waiting areas open to corridors and
exterior exit access that leads directly to an exit or a habitable spaces other than sleeping units and
means of egress door opening directly to an exit. kitchens.
Required smoke alarms in dwelling units and Exceptions:
sleeping units in Group R-2 occupancies operated
by a college or university for student or staff 1. Smoke detection in habitable spaces is not
housing shall be interconnected with the fire alarm required where the facility is equipped
system in accordance with NFPA 72. throughout with an automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Section
907.2.10 Gr oup R-4. Fire alarm systems 903.3.1.1.
and smoke alarms shall be installed in Group R-4
occupancies as required in Sections 907.2.10.1 2. An automatic smoke detection system is not
through 907.2.10.3. required in buildings that do not have interior
corridors serving sleeping units and where
907.2.10.1 Manual fire alarm system. A each sleeping unit has a means of egress door
manual fire alarm system that activates the opening directly to an exit or to an exterior
occupant notification system in accordance with exit access that leads directly to an exit.
Section 907.5 shall be installed in Group R-4
occupancies. 907.2.10.3 Smoke alarms. Single and
multiple-station smoke alarms shall be installed in
Exceptions: accordance with Section 907.2.11.
1. A manual fire alarm system is not required in 907.2.11 Single and multiple-station
buildings not more than two stories in height smoke alar ms. Listed single and multiple-station
where all individual sleeping units and smoke alarms complying with UL 217 shall be
contiguous attic and crawl spaces to those installed in accordance with Sections 907.2.11.1
units are separated from each other and through 907.2.11.6 and NFPA 72.
public or common areas by not less than 1
hour fire partitions and each individual 907.2.11.1 Group R-1. Single or multiple-
sleeping unit has an exit directly to a public station smoke alarms shall be installed in all of the
way, egress court or yard. following locations in Group R-1:

2. Manual fire alarm boxes are not required 1. In sleeping areas.

throughout the building where all of the 2. In every room in the path of the means of
following conditions are met: egress from the sleeping area to the door
2.1. The building is equipped throughout leading from the sleeping unit.
with an automatic sprinkler system 3. In each story within the sleeping unit,
installed in accordance with Section including basements. For sleeping units with
903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2. split levels and without an intervening door
2.2. The notification appliances will between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm
activate upon sprinkler water flow. installed on the upper level shall suffice for
the adjacent lower level provided that the
2.3. Not fewer than one manual fire alarm lower level is less than one full story below
box is installed at an approved location. the upper level.
3. Manual fire alarm boxes in resident or patient 907.2.11.2 Groups R-2, R-3, R-4 and I-1.
sleeping areas shall not be required at exits Single or multiple-station smoke alarms shall be
where located at all nurses’ control stations installed and maintained in Groups R-2, R-3, R-4
or other constantly attended staff locations, and I-1 regardless of occupant load at all of the
provided such stations are visible and following locations:
continuously accessible and that the
distances of travel required in Section
907.4.2.1 are not exceeded.

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1. On the ceiling or wall outside of each separate their primary power from the building wiring where
sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of such wiring is served from a commercial source and
bedrooms. shall be equipped with a battery backup. Smoke
alarms with integral strobes that are not equipped
2. In each room used for sleeping purposes.
with battery back-up shall be connected to an
3. In each story within a dwelling unit, including emergency electrical system in accordance with
basements but not including crawl spaces and Section 604. Smoke alarms shall emit a signal when
uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and
units with split levels and without an without a disconnecting switch other than as
intervening door between the adjacent levels, required for overcurrent protection.
a smoke alarm installed on the upper level
Exception: Smoke alarms are not required to be
shall suffice for the adjacent lower level
equipped with battery backup where they are
provided that the lower level is less than one
connected to an emergency electrical system that
full story below the upper level.
complies with Section 604.
907.2.11.3 Installation near cooking
907.2.11.7 Smoke detection system. Smoke
appliances. Smoke alarms shall not be installed in
detectors listed in accordance with UL 268 and
the following locations unless this would prevent
provided as part of the building fire alarm system
placement of a smoke alarm in a location required
shall be an acceptable alternative to single-and
by Section 907.2.11.1 or 907.2.11.2:
multiple-station smoke alarms and shall comply
1. Ionization smoke alarms shall not be installed with the following:
less than 6 m horizontally from a
1. The fire alarm system shall comply with all
permanently installed cooking appliance.
applicable requirements in Section 907.
2. Ionization smoke alarms with an alarm-
2. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling
silencing switch shall not be installed less
unit or sleeping unit shall initiate alarm
than 3000 mm horizontally from a
notification in the dwelling unit or sleeping
permanently installed cooking appliance.
unit in accordance with Section 907.5.2.
3. Photoelectric smoke alarms shall not be
3. Activation of a smoke detector in a dwelling
installed less than 1800 mm horizontally
unit or sleeping unit shall not activate alarm
from a permanently installed cooking
notification appliances outside of the
appliance.
dwelling unit or sleeping unit, provided that
907.2.11.4 Installation near bathrooms. a supervisory signal is generated and
Smoke alarms shall be installed not less than 900 monitored in accordance with Section
mm horizontally from the door or opening of a 907.6.6.
bathroom that contains a bathtub or shower unless
907.2.12 Special amusement buildings. An
this would prevent placement of a smoke alarm
automatic smoke detection system shall be provided
required by Section 907.2.11.1 or 907.2.11.2.
in special amusement buildings in accordance with
907.2.11.5 Interconnection. Where more Sections 907.2.12.1 through 907.2.12.3.
than one smoke alarm is required to be installed
907.2.12.1 Alarm. Activation of any single
within an individual dwelling unit or sleeping unit
smoke detector, the automatic sprinkler system or
in Group R or I-1 occupancies the smoke alarms
any other automatic fire detection device shall
shall be interconnected in such a manner that the
immediately activate an audible and visible alarm
activation of one alarm will activate all of the
at the building at a constantly attended location
alarms in the individual unit. Physical
from which emergency action can be initiated,
interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be
including the capability of manual initiation of
required where listed wireless alarms are installed
requirements in Section 907.2.12.2.
and all alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
The alarm shall be clearly audible in all bedrooms 907.2.12.2 System response. The activation
over background noise levels with all intervening of two or more smoke detectors, a single smoke
doors closed. detector equipped with an alarm verification
feature, the automatic sprinkler system or other
907.2.11.6 Power source. In new
approved fire detection device shall automatically
construction, required smoke alarms shall receive
do all of the following:

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1. Cause illumination of the means of egress 907.2.13.1 Automatic smoke detection.

with light of not less than 11 lux at the Automatic smoke detection in high-rise buildings
walking surface level. shall be in accordance with Sections 907.2.13.1.1
and 907.2.13.1.2.
2. Stop any conflicting or confusing sounds and
visual distractions. 907.2.13.1.1 Area smoke detection. Area
smoke detectors shall be provided in accordance
3. Activate an approved directional exit marking
with this section. Smoke detectors shall be
that will become apparent in an emergency.
connected to an automatic fire alarm system. The
4. Activate a prerecorded message, audible activation of any detector required by this section
throughout the special amusement building, shall activate the emergency voice/alarm
instructing patrons to proceed to the nearest communication system in accordance with Section
exit. Alarm signals used in conjunction with 907.5.2.2. In addition to smoke detectors required
the prerecorded message shall produce a by Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.10, smoke
sound that is distinctive from other sounds detectors shall be located as follows:
used during normal operation.
1. In each mechanical equipment, electrical,
907.2.12.3 Emergency voice/alarm transformer, telephone equipment or similar
communication system. An emergency room that is not provided with sprinkler
voice/alarm communication system, which is also protection.
allowed to serve as a public address system, shall be
2. In each elevator machine room, machinery
installed in accordance with Section 907.5.2.2 and
space, control room and control space and in
be audible throughout the entire special amusement
elevator lobbies.
building.
907.2.13.1.2 Duct smoke detection. Duct
907.2.13 High-r ise buildings. High-rise
smoke detectors complying with Section 907.3.1
buildings shall be provided with an automatic
shall be located as follows:
smoke detection system in accordance with Section
907.2.13.1, a fire department (Civil Defense) 1. In the main return air and exhaust air plenum
communication system in accordance with Section of each air-conditioning system having a
907.2.13.2 and an emergency voice/alarm capacity greater than 0.94 m3/s. Such
communication system in accordance with Section detectors shall be located in a serviceable
907.5.2.2. area downstream of the last duct inlet.
Exceptions: 2. At each connection to a vertical duct or riser
serving two or more stories from a return air
1. Airport traffic control towers in accordance
duct or plenum of an air-conditioning system.
with Section 907.2.22 of this code and
In Group R-1 and R-2 occupancies, a smoke
Section 412 of the SBC 201.
detector is allowed to be used in each return
2. Open parking garages in accordance with air riser carrying not more than 2.4 m3/s and
Section 406.5 of the SBC 201. serving not more than 10 air-inlet openings.
3. Buildings with an occupancy in Group A-5 in 907.2.13.2 Fire department (Civil Defense)
accordance with Section 303.1 of the SBC communication system. Where a wired
201. communication system is approved in lieu of an
4. Low-hazard special occupancies in emergency responder radio coverage system in
accordance with Section 503.1.1 of the SBC accordance with Section 510, the wired fire
201. department (Civil Defense) communication system
shall be designed and installed in accordance with
5. Buildings with an occupancy in Group H-1, NFPA 72 and shall operate between a fire command
H-2 or H-3 in accordance with Section 415 center complying with Section 508, elevators,
of the SBC 201. elevator lobbies, emergency and standby power
6. In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the alarm rooms, fire pump rooms, areas of refuge and inside
shall sound at a constantly attended location interior exit stairways. The fire department (Civil
and occupant notification shall be broadcast Defense) communication device shall be provided
by the emergency voice/alarm at each floor level within the interior exit stairway.
communication system.

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907.2.14 Atriums connecting more than 907.2.18.2 Alarm required. Activation of the
two stories. A fire alarm system shall be installed smoke control system shall activate an audible
in occupancies with an atrium that connects more alarm at a constantly attended location.
than two stories, with smoke detection in locations
907.2.19 Deep under gr ound buildings.
required by a rational analysis in Section 909.4 and
Where the lowest level of a structure is more than
in accordance with the system operation
18 m below the finished floor of the lowest level of
requirements in Section 909.17. The system shall be
exit discharge, the structure shall be equipped
activated in accordance with Section 907.5. Such
throughout with a manual fire alarm system,
occupancies in Group A, E or M shall be provided
including an emergency voice/alarm
with an emergency voice/alarm communication
communication system installed in accordance with
system complying with the requirements of Section
Section 907.5.2.2.
907.5.2.2.
907.2.20 Covered and open mall
907.2.15 High-piled combustible stor age
buildings. Where the total floor area exceeds 4650
ar eas. An automatic smoke detection system shall
m2 within either a covered mall building or within
be installed throughout high-piled combustible
the perimeter line of an open mall building, an
storage areas where required by Section 3206.5.
emergency voice/alarm communication system
907.2.16 Aerosol stor age uses. Aerosol shall be provided. Emergency voice/alarm
storage rooms and general-purpose warehouses communication systems serving a mall, required or
containing aerosols shall be provided with an otherwise, shall be accessible to the fire department
approved manual fire alarm system where required (Civil Defense) . The system shall be provided in
by this code. accordance with Section 907.5.2.2.
907.2.17 Lumber , wood str uctur al panel 907.2.21 Residential aircr aft hangars. Not
and veneer mills. Lumber, wood structural panel fewer than one single-station smoke alarm shall be
and veneer mills shall be provided with a manual installed within a residential aircraft hangar as
fire alarm system. defined in Chapter 2 of the SBC 201 and shall be
interconnected into the residential smoke alarm or
907.2.18 Under gr ound buildings with
other sounding device to provide an alarm that will
smoke contr ol systems. Where a smoke control
be audible in all sleeping areas of the dwelling.
system is installed in an underground building in
accordance with the SBC 201, automatic smoke 907.2.22 Airpor t tr affic contr ol tower s.
detectors shall be provided in accordance with An automatic smoke detection system that activates
Section 907.2.18.1. the occupant notification system in accordance with
Section 907.5 shall be provided in airport control
907.2.18.1 Smoke detectors. Not fewer than
towers in accordance with Sections 907.2.22.1
one smoke detector listed for the intended purpose
and 907.2.22.2.
shall be installed in all of the following areas:
Exception: Audible appliances shall not be
1. Mechanical equipment, electrical,
installed within the control tower cab.
transformer, telephone equipment, elevator
machine or similar rooms. 907.2.22.1 Airport traffic control towers
with multiple exits and automatic sprinklers.
2. Elevator lobbies.
Airport traffic control towers with multiple exits
3. The main return and exhaust air plenum of and equipped throughout with an automatic
each air-conditioning system serving more sprinkler system in accordance with Section
than one story and located in a serviceable 903.3.1.1 shall be provided with smoke detectors in
area downstream of the last duct inlet. all of the following locations:
4. Each connection to a vertical duct or riser 1. Airport traffic control cab.
serving two or more floors from return air
2. Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
ducts or plenums of heating, ventilating and
air-conditioning systems, except that in 3. Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms.
Group R occupancies, a listed smoke detector
4. Outside each opening into interior exit
is allowed to be used in each return air riser
stairways.
carrying not more than 2.4 m3/s and serving
not more than 10 air inlet openings.

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5. Along the single means of egress permitted alarm. They shall not be used as a substitute for
from observation levels. required open area detection.
6. Outside each opening into the single means of Exceptions:
egress permitted from observation levels.
1. The supervisory signal at a constantly
907.2.22.2 Other airport traffic control attended location is not required where duct
towers. Airport traffic control towers with a single smoke detectors activate the building’s alarm
exit or where sprinklers are not installed throughout notification appliances.
shall be provided with smoke detectors in all of the
2. In occupancies not required to be equipped
following locations:
with a fire alarm system, actuation of a
1. Airport traffic control cab. smoke detector shall activate a visible and an
audible signal in an approved location.
2. Electrical and mechanical equipment rooms.
Smoke detector trouble conditions shall
3. Airport terminal radar and electronics rooms. activate a visible or audible signal in an
4. Office spaces incidental to the tower approved location and shall be identified as
operation. air duct detector trouble.

5. Lounges for employees, including sanitary 907.3.2 Delayed egress locks. Where delayed
facilities. egress locks are installed on means of egress doors
in accordance with Section 1010.1.9.7, an automatic
6. Means of egress. smoke or heat detection system shall be installed as
7. Accessible utility shafts. required by that section.

907.2.23 Batter y rooms. An automatic 907.3.3 Elevator emer gency oper ation.
smoke detection system shall be installed in areas Automatic fire detectors installed for elevator
containing stationary storage battery systems with a emergency operation shall be installed in
liquid capacity of more than 190 L. accordance with the provisions of ASME A17.1 and
NFPA 72.
907.3 Fire safety functions. Automatic fire
detectors utilized for the purpose of performing fire 907.3.4 Wiring. The wiring to the auxiliary devices
safety functions shall be connected to the building’s and equipment used to accomplish the fire safety
fire alarm control unit where a fire alarm system is functions shall be monitored for integrity in
required by Section 907.2. Detectors shall, upon accordance with NFPA 72.
actuation, perform the intended function and 907.4 Initiating devices. Where manual or
activate the alarm notification appliances or activate automatic alarm initiation is required as part of a
a visible and audible supervisory signal at a fire alarm system, the initiating devices shall be
constantly attended location. In buildings not installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.1
equipped with a fire alarm system, the automatic through 907.4.3.1.
fire detector shall be powered by normal electrical
service and, upon actuation, perform the intended 907.4.1 Pr otection of fire alar m control unit. In
function. The detectors shall be located in areas that are not continuously occupied, a single
accordance with NFPA 72. smoke detector shall be provided at the location of
each fire alarm control unit, notification appliance
907.3.1 Duct smoke detectors. Smoke detectors circuit power extenders and supervising station
installed in ducts shall be listed for the air velocity, transmitting equipment.
temperature and humidity present in the duct. Duct
smoke detectors shall be connected to the building’s Exception: Where ambient conditions prohibit
fire alarm control unit when a fire alarm system is installation of smoke detector, a heat detector shall
required by Section 907.2. Activation of a duct be permitted.
smoke detector shall initiate a visible and audible 907.4.2 Manual fire alar m boxes. Where a manual
supervisory signal at a constantly attended location fire alarm system is required by another section of
and shall perform the intended fire safety function this code, it shall be activated by fire alarm boxes
in accordance with this code and the SBC 501. In installed in accordance with Sections 907.4.2.1
facilities that are required to be monitored by a through 907.4.2.6.
supervising station, duct smoke detectors shall
report only as a supervisory signal and not as a fire

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907.4.2.1 Location. Manual fire alarm boxes detectors, an automatic sprinkler system installed in
shall be located not more than 1500 mm from the such areas in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 or
entrance to each exit. In buildings not protected by 903.3.1.2 and that is connected to the fire alarm
an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with system shall be approved as automatic heat
Section 903.3.1.1 or 903.3.1.2, additional manual detection.
fire alarm boxes shall be located so that the exit
907.5 Occupant notification systems. A fire
access travel distance to the nearest box does not
alarm system shall annunciate at the fire alarm
exceed 60 m.
control unit and shall initiate occupant notification
907.4.2.2 Height. The height of the manual upon activation, in accordance with Sections
fire alarm boxes shall be not less than 1000 mm and 907.5.1 through 907.5.2.3.3. Where a fire alarm
not more than 1200 mm measured vertically, from system is required by another section of this code,
the floor level to the activating handle or lever of it shall be activated by:
the box.
1. Automatic fire detectors.
907.4.2.3 Color. Manual fire alarm boxes
2. Automatic sprinkler system waterflow
shall be red in color.
devices.
907.4.2.4 Signs. Where fire alarm systems
3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
are not monitored by a supervising station, an
approved permanent sign shall be installed adjacent 4. Automatic fire-extinguishing systems.
to each manual fire alarm box that reads: WHEN Exception: Where notification systems are allowed
ALARM SOUNDS—CALL FIRE elsewhere in Section 907 to annunciate at a
DEPARTMENT (CIVIL DEFENSE) . constantly attended location.
Exception: Where the manufacturer has 907.5.1 Pr esignal featur e. A presignal feature
permanently provided this information on the shall not be installed unless approved by the fire
manual fire alarm box. code official and the fire department (Civil
907.4.2.5 Protective covers. The fire code Defense) . Where a presignal feature is provided, a
official is authorized to require the installation of signal shall be annunciated at a constantly attended
listed manual fire alarm box protective covers to location approved by the fire department (Civil
prevent malicious false alarms or to provide the Defense) , so that occupant notification can be
manual fire alarm box with protection from physical activated in the event of fire or other emergency.
damage. The protective cover shall be transparent 907.5.2 Alar m notification appliances. Alarm
or red in color with a transparent face to permit notification appliances shall be provided and shall
visibility of the manual fire alarm box. Each cover be listed for their purpose.
shall include proper operating instructions. A
protective cover that emits a local alarm signal shall 907.5.2.1 Audible alarms. Audible alarm
not be installed unless approved. Protective covers notification appliances shall be provided and emit a
shall not project more than that permitted by distinctive sound that is not to be used for any
Section 1003.3.3. purpose other than that of a fire alarm.
907.4.2.6 Unobstructed and unobscured. Exceptions:
Manual fire alarm boxes shall be accessible, 1. Audible alarm notification appliances are not
unobstructed, unobscured and visible at all times. required in critical care areas of Group I-2
907.4.3 Automatic smoke detection. Where an Condition 2 occupancies that are in
automatic smoke detection system is required it compliance with Section 907.2.6, Exception
shall utilize smoke detectors unless ambient 2.
conditions prohibit such an installation. In spaces 2. A visible alarm notification appliance
where smoke detectors cannot be utilized due to installed in a nurses’ control station or other
ambient conditions, approved automatic heat detectors
continuously attended staff location in a
shall be permitted.
Group I-2 Condition 2 suite shall be an
907.4.3.1 Automatic sprinkler system. For acceptable alternative to the installation of
conditions other than specific fire safety functions audible alarm notification appliances
noted in Section 907.3, in areas where ambient throughout the suite in Group I-2 Condition
conditions prohibit the installation of smoke

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2 occupancies that are in compliance with be provided on a selective and all-call basis for all
Section 907.2.6, Exception 2. paging zones.
3. Where provided, audible notification 907.5.2.2.2 Live voice messages. The
appliances located in each occupant emergency voice/ alarm communication system
evacuation elevator lobby in accordance with shall have the capability to broadcast live voice
Section 3008.9.1 of the SBC 201 shall be messages by paging zones on a selective and all-call
connected to a separate notification zone for basis.
manual paging only.
907.5.2.2.3 Alternate uses. The emergency
907.5.2.1.1 Average sound pressure. The voice/ alarm communication system shall be
audible alarm notification appliances shall provide allowed to be used for other announcements,
a sound pressure level of 15 decibels (dBA) above provided the manual fire alarm use takes
the average ambient sound level or 5 dBA above the precedence over any other use.
maximum sound level having a duration of not less
907.5.2.2.4 Emergency voice/alarm
than 60 seconds, whichever is greater, in every
communication captions. Where stadiums, arenas
occupiable space within the building.
and grandstands are required to caption audible
907.5.2.1.2 Maximum sound pressure. The public announcements in accordance with Section
maximum sound pressure level for audible alarm 1108.2.7.3 of the SBC 201, the emergency/voice
notification appliances shall be 110 dBA at the alarm communication system shall be captioned.
minimum hearing distance from the audible Prerecorded or live emergency captions shall be
appliance. Where the average ambient noise is from an approved location constantly attended by
greater than 95 dBA, visible alarm notification personnel trained to respond to an emergency.
appliances shall be provided in accordance with
907.5.2.2.5 Emergency power. Emergency
NFPA 72 and audible alarm notification appliances
voice/ alarm communications systems shall be
shall not be required.
provided with emergency power in accordance with
907.5.2.2 Emergency voice/alarm Section 604. The system shall be capable of
communication systems. Emergency voice/alarm powering the required load for a duration of not less
communication systems required by this code shall than 24 hours, as required in NFPA 72.
be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA
907.5.2.3 Visible alarms. Visible alarm
72. The operation of any automatic fire detector,
notification appliances shall be provided in
sprinkler waterflow device or manual fire alarm box
accordance with Sections 907.5.2.3.1 through
shall automatically sound an alert tone followed by
907.5.2.3.3.
voice instructions giving approved information and
directions for a general or staged evacuation in Exceptions:
accordance with the building’s fire safety and
1. Visible alarm notification appliances are not
evacuation plans required by Section 404. In high-
required in alterations, except where an
rise buildings, the system shall operate on at least
existing fire alarm system is upgraded or
the alarming floor, the floor above and the floor
replaced, or a new fire alarm system is
below. Speakers shall be provided throughout the
installed.
building by paging zones. At a minimum, paging
zones shall be provided as follows: 2. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not
be required in exits as defined in Chapter 2.
1. Elevator groups.
3. Visible alarm notification appliances shall not
2. Interior exit stairways.
be required in elevator cars.
3. Each floor.
4. Visual alarm notification appliances are not
4. Areas of refuge as defined in Chapter 2. required in critical care areas of Group I-2
Condition 2 occupancies that are in
Exception: In Group I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the
compliance with Section 907.2.6, Exception
alarm shall sound in a constantly attended area and
2.
a general occupant notification shall be broadcast
over the overhead page. 907.5.2.3.1 Public use areas and common
use areas. Visible alarm notification appliances
907.5.2.2.1 Manual override. A manual
override for emergency voice communication shall

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 Fire Protection Systems

shall be provided in public use areas and common Exceptions:

use areas.
1. Fire alarm systems in single-story buildings
Exception: Where employee work areas have less than 2100 m2 in area.
audible alarm coverage, the notification appliance
2. Fire alarm systems that only include manual
circuits serving the employee work areas shall be
fire alarm boxes, waterflow initiating devices
initially designed with not less than 20-percent
and not more than 10 additional alarm-
spare capacity to account for the potential of adding
initiating devices.
visible notification appliances in the future to
accommodate hearing-impaired employee(s). 3. Special initiating devices that do not support
individual device identification.
907.5.2.3.2 Groups I-1 and R-1. Group I-1
and R-1 dwelling units or sleeping units in 4. Fire alarm systems or devices that are
accordance with Table 907.5.2.3.2 shall be replacing existing equipment.
provided with a visible alarm notification 907.6.3.1 Annunciation. The initiating
appliance, activated by both the in-room smoke device status shall be annunciated at an approved
alarm and the building fire alarm system. on-site location.
907.5.2.3.3 Group R-2. In Group R-2 907.6.4 Zones. Each floor shall be zoned separately
occupancies required by Section 907 to have a fire and a zone shall not exceed 2100 m2. The length of
alarm system, all dwelling units and sleeping units any zone shall not exceed 90 m in any direction.
shall be provided with the capability to support
visible alarm notification appliances in accordance Exception: Automatic sprinkler system zones shall
with Chapter 10 of ICC A117.1. Such capability not exceed the area permitted by NFPA 13.
shall be permitted to include the potential for future 907.6.4.1 Zoning indicator panel. A zoning
interconnection of the building fire alarm system indicator panel and the associated controls shall be
with the unit smoke alarms, replacement of audible provided in an approved location. The visual zone
appliances with combination audible/ visible indication shall lock in until the system is reset and
appliances, or future extension of the existing shall not be canceled by the operation of an audible
wiring from the unit smoke alarm locations to alarm-silencing switch.
required locations for visible appliances.
907.6.4.2 High-rise buildings In high-rise
907.6 Installation and monitoring. A fire alarm buildings, a separate zone by floor shall be provided
system shall be installed and monitored in for each of the following types of alarm-initiating
accordance with Sections 907.6.1 through devices where provided:
907.6.6.2 and NFPA 72.
1. Smoke detectors.
907.6.1 Wiring. Wiring shall comply with the
requirements of NFPA 70 and NFPA 72. Wireless 2. Sprinkler water flow devices.
protection systems utilizing radio-frequency 3. Manual fire alarm boxes.
transmitting devices shall comply with the special
requirements for supervision of low-power wireless 4. Other approved types of automatic fire
systems in NFPA 72. detection devices or suppression systems.
907.6.2 Power supply. The primary and secondary 907.6.5 Access. Access shall be provided to each
power supply for the fire alarm system shall be fire alarm device and notification appliance for
provided in accordance with NFPA 72. periodic inspection, maintenance and testing.
Exception: Backup power for single-station and 907.6.6 Monitor ing. Fire alarm systems required
multiple-station smoke alarms as required in by this chapter or by the SBC 201 shall be
Section 907.2.11.6. monitored by an approved supervising station in
accordance with NFPA 72.
907.6.3 Initiating device identification. The fire
alarm system shall identify the specific initiating Exception: Monitoring by a supervising station is
device address, location, device type, floor level not required for:
where applicable and status including indication of 1. Single and multiple-station smoke alarms
normal, alarm, trouble and supervisory status, as required by Section 907.2.11.
appropriate.
2. Smoke detectors in Group I-3 occupancies.

SBC 801-CR-18 174